Weddings are often described as the “biggest day of your life” but too often they become the biggest bill as well.
Before you panic over napkin choices or whether chair sashes are essential (they’re not), let’s take a step back.
You can have an extraordinary wedding without losing your head — or your savings. The key is knowing where to spend, where to save, and how to stay in control.
Can I get married on a budget?
Absolutely.
A budget is not a limit on joy — it’s a framework for intentional decisions. Whether your budget is £5,000, £50,000, or £150,000, what matters is making sure that your money is going toward things that will actually make a difference to you and your guests.
Start by identifying your non-negotiables:
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Is it the venue?
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Is it food and drink?
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Is it the experience for your guests?
Once you’re clear on what matters most, you can build the day around it — and let go of the rest.
How much will it cost for 100 people at a wedding?
For a full-day wedding in the UK with 100 guests, the average cost hovers around £20,000–£30,000, but it varies wildly depending on where you are, what day you choose, and how lavish your tastes may be. Here’s a rough guide:
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Venue hire: £3,000–£8,000
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Catering (3 courses): £5,000–£8,000
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Drinks: £1,500–£3,000
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Photography/Videography: £1,500–£3,000
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Entertainment: £1,000–£2,500
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Dress/Suit: £500–£3,000
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Flowers/Decor: £1,000–£3,000
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Host or MC: £1,250–£2,700
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Extras (transport, cake, favours, etc.): £1,000+
But you don’t have to tick every box. If you want a shorter day, a weekday wedding, or fewer guests — the cost drops significantly.
To help you plan clearly and confidently, I’ve created a free wedding budget calculator you can download HERE.
Wedding budget tips: Where to spend (and where you can save)
💷 Spend on:
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Hosting: A great MC or Host will keep the day running smoothly, handle awkward transitions, and keep energy levels high — worth every penny.
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Photography: Your flowers will fade. Your food will be eaten. But your photos last. Don’t scrimp.
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Entertainment: Your guests won’t remember the starter, but they will remember the atmosphere.
✂️ Save on:
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Favours: Most are left behind. If you want to do something, make it edible or charitable.
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Stationery: Go digital for save-the-dates or RSVPs. No one will be offended.
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Over-decorating: A stunning venue needs very little dressing. Let the space do the talking.
🎩 Gentleman’s note: Always build in a small contingency. Things change — that’s life. Better to have a cushion than a crisis.
A magical wedding doesn’t come from how much you spend — it comes from how well you plan. Thoughtful choices, a little creativity, and the right team around you will go further than any Pinterest board ever could.